Last year, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) experienced scrutiny as over 330,000 applications for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) were rejected, raising concerns about the system's efficiency and accessibility for claimants. Of the 721,100 claims processed during the financial year 2023-2024, 332,800—approximately 46%—were turned down. This statistic emerged during parliamentary discussions led by Liberal Democrat MP Steve Darling, who sought clarification on the appeal outcomes of those whose applications were initially declined.
Addressing the House of Commons, DWP Minister Sir Stephen Timms explained, "Of the 721,100 claimants who had their claim for Personal Independence Payment (PIP) cleared in the Financial Year 2023-2024, 332,800 (46%) were disallowed at assessment. Of these, 13,500 were awarded PIP following an appeal, which is 4% of all who were initially disallowed." Timms reported 18,900 appeals were pending resolution at the time of the inquiry, indicating potential changes to the rejection figure.
This sharp rejection rate has provoked criticism concerning the quality of service provided by the DWP. Disability advocacy groups, including Turn2us, have expressed concern over the delays and poor communication from the department, noting the hardships inflicted upon disabled individuals reliant on PIP for financial stability. Shelley Hopkinson, Turn2us's head of policy, highlighted how variations and delays lead to severe consequences: "DWP delays and poor communication disrupt claims, causing hardship for Disabled people who depend on these benefits for financial security. People we speak to tell us when payments are delayed, they struggle to afford basic essentials and care, their health deteriorates, and the stress can affect their ability to work."
A notable report from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has flagged persistent issues within the PIP assessment process, contrasting it with the benefits system's intended role to support those with enduring health conditions or disabilities. PIP is selectively granted based on applicants' capacity to manage daily living activities and mobility. To qualify, one must be aged 16 or older, possess either long-term physical or mental health challenges, and experience difficulties with common everyday tasks or mobility for at least 12 months.
The eligibility requirements for this benefit include several key aspects: prospective claimants must reside within the UK for at least two out of the previous three years, should be under State Pension age if applying for PIP for the first time, and they can receive PIP alongside other benefits (with certain exceptions). Should individuals disagree with the DWP's decision, they have avenues to challenge the ruling, which, if successful, could lead to reassessment of their entire claim.
Concerns continue to grow surrounding this tightening of criteria and the systemic issues highlighted, including disorganization leading to extensive delays. Experts have called on the Labour Government to facilitate urgent reforms. Hopkinson explicitly urged for the establishment of “a fair, efficient, and accessible social security system.” She stated, “The government must work with disabled people toensure the system truly meets the needs of those it serves.”
The previous system’s deficiencies not only risk undermining trust but also suggest systemic consequences for thousands who depend on prompt support. Such outcomes are particularly relevant to the vulnerable communities affected and the challenges they face—a frustration reflected widely through numerous reports from disability charities.
With the DWP's processes facing scrutiny, the responsibility falls not merely on the department but also on the government to awaken timely changes to support mechanisms for those who are fighting for fairness and dignity through the PIP framework. Time will tell if these pressures will lead to effective reforms, but the rising discontent among claimants cannot be overlooked.